Overview

You must register your business with the Ministry of the Solicitor General if your business directly employs in-house security guards.

You do not need to register if your business only uses security guards from a licensed security agency.

Register or renew as an employer

Visit ServiceOntario to:

  • register as an employer of security guards and/or private investigators
  • renew your registration
    • request a new registration certificate to replace a lost, stolen or damaged certificate
    • change the information on your registration certificate

ServiceOntario does not accept applications at its service counters.

Processing time

Allow up to 30 business days for your registration to be processed. You can check the status of your registration.

Registration expiry

Registrations are valid for three years. You must renew your registration through ServiceOntario.

Registered employer responsibilities

Registered employers are responsible for complying with the Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 and all relevant regulations. Failure to comply can lead to charges.

You are responsible for ensuring your employees maintain a valid licence. If an employee is charged for working without a valid licence, you may also face charges.

As an employer you must notify the ministry within five business days if you change:

  • your business mailing address
  • your business phone number
  • your business email address
  • any other contact information